39635, Fernwood, Mississippi Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 39635, Fernwood, Mississippi is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 56.17 percent of the residents in 39635 has some form of health insurance. 24.68 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 31.49 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 39635 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 0 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 0 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 39635. An estimate of 0 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 0 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 910 health care providers accessible to residents in 39635, Fernwood, Mississippi.

**Asthma Score Analysis: Doctors in ZIP Code 39635 and Primary Care Availability in Fernwood**

Fernwood, Mississippi, nestled within ZIP code 39635, presents a unique healthcare landscape. Evaluating the accessibility and quality of asthma care necessitates a deep dive into the availability of primary care physicians (PCPs), the physician-to-patient ratio, the adoption of innovative technologies, and the integration of mental health resources. This analysis aims to provide an "Asthma Score" assessment, gauging the overall suitability of the area for asthma patients.

The cornerstone of effective asthma management is consistent primary care. In Fernwood, assessing primary care availability begins with understanding the population density and the number of practicing PCPs. The ideal scenario is a low patient-to-physician ratio, allowing for more personalized and attentive care. However, rural areas often face challenges in attracting and retaining physicians, potentially leading to longer wait times for appointments and increased patient loads for existing providers. Researching the exact number of PCPs actively practicing within 39635 is crucial. Publicly available databases, such as those maintained by the Mississippi State Board of Medical Licensure, can provide this information. The analysis should compare the number of PCPs to the total population of Fernwood to determine the physician-to-patient ratio. A higher ratio (more patients per physician) indicates a potential strain on the healthcare system, potentially impacting asthma patients’ access to timely care.

Beyond the raw numbers, the quality of primary care significantly impacts asthma management. The analysis should investigate the practices of individual PCPs. Factors to consider include the physicians' experience in treating asthma, their adherence to national asthma guidelines, and their commitment to patient education. Are the physicians up-to-date on the latest asthma treatments and management strategies? Do they offer comprehensive asthma action plans? Do they actively engage patients in self-management techniques? Reviewing patient testimonials and online reviews can provide valuable insights into the patient experience. However, it is important to note that online reviews can be subjective and may not always reflect the overall quality of care.

Another critical aspect of asthma care is the availability of specialized care. While PCPs are the first line of defense, asthma patients with more complex needs may require referral to pulmonologists or allergists. The analysis should assess the proximity of these specialists to Fernwood. Are there pulmonologists or allergists within a reasonable driving distance? The lack of specialized care can significantly hinder asthma management, especially for patients with severe or uncontrolled asthma. Transportation challenges, common in rural areas, further exacerbate the problem.

The adoption of telemedicine is a crucial factor in improving access to care, particularly in rural areas. Telemedicine allows patients to consult with physicians remotely, reducing the need for travel and potentially improving access to specialists. The analysis should determine the extent to which PCPs in 39635 offer telemedicine services. Are virtual appointments available for routine check-ups, medication management, and asthma education? Telemedicine can be particularly beneficial for asthma patients, allowing them to monitor their symptoms and receive timely interventions. The availability of remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters with digital connectivity, can further enhance the effectiveness of telemedicine.

Mental health is inextricably linked to asthma management. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's mental well-being, leading to anxiety, depression, and reduced quality of life. Conversely, mental health conditions can exacerbate asthma symptoms and make it more difficult to manage the disease. The analysis should investigate the integration of mental health resources into primary care practices in Fernwood. Do PCPs screen patients for mental health conditions? Are mental health professionals, such as therapists or counselors, readily accessible? Integrated care, where mental health services are provided within the primary care setting, has been shown to improve outcomes for patients with both asthma and mental health conditions.

Identifying "standout practices" within 39635 is essential. These practices may demonstrate excellence in asthma care, offering comprehensive services, incorporating innovative technologies, and prioritizing patient education. The analysis should identify practices that: have a low patient-to-physician ratio, actively utilize telemedicine, offer asthma education classes, have integrated mental health services, and consistently receive positive patient feedback. These practices can serve as models for other providers in the area.

The analysis should also consider the availability of community resources. Are there asthma support groups or educational programs available in Fernwood? Do local pharmacies offer asthma medication counseling and refill reminders? Community involvement and patient support networks can play a crucial role in empowering asthma patients to manage their condition effectively.

Evaluating the cost of care is another important factor. The analysis should consider the cost of primary care visits, specialist referrals, medications, and other asthma-related expenses. The availability of insurance coverage and financial assistance programs can significantly impact access to care.

The "Asthma Score" for 39635 should be a composite score based on all the factors discussed above. It should reflect the overall accessibility, quality, and affordability of asthma care in the area. The score should be accompanied by a detailed explanation of the methodology used and the rationale behind the scoring. The analysis should provide actionable recommendations for improving asthma care in Fernwood. These recommendations may include: increasing the number of PCPs, expanding telemedicine services, integrating mental health resources, and promoting community education programs.

The final "Asthma Score" should provide a clear picture of the healthcare landscape for asthma patients in Fernwood.

To visualize the healthcare landscape and identify the best practices for asthma care in Fernwood, and to help you make informed decisions about your healthcare, explore the power of CartoChrome maps.